“Discover how the Penang Mutiara Route Light Rail Transit (LRT) project aims to ease traffic congestion, boost tourism, and enhance urban mobility.“
GEORGETOWN, 15th Apr 2024 – The initiation of the Penang Mutiara Route Light Rail Transit (LRT) project is perceived as a favorable alternative for residents, aiming to mitigate traffic congestion and improve urban mobility by linking urban and suburban zones.
The planned LRT route, set to stretch from Silicon Island to Komtar and extend to Penang Sentral in Seberang Perai, is anticipated to enhance tourism in the state, renowned for its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Sites.
Abi Sofian Abdul Hamid, a transportation analyst and expert, noted that the LRT system links key areas, meeting the needs of commuters through well-placed and convenient transportation hubs at every station.
“Hence, it’s crucial to factor in support systems for ‘the last mile’ and associated elements. This encompasses shuttle services and parking amenities.”
“In light of the Prime Minister’s (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) statement, this initiative will also incorporate transit-oriented development principles, with LRT stations serving as hubs for residential and employment center growth,” the analyst recently commented.
Abi Sofian, who also founded Thought Partners Group Consulting (TPG), elucidated that the Penang LRT initiative has the potential to promote eco-friendly transportation by decreasing the number of vehicles and carbon emissions. This aligns with the objectives of the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), provided it’s carried out with meticulous research and effective execution.
He mentioned that in theory, the Penang LRT project could draw tourists by strategically placing stations near tourist spots, facilitating easy movement between attractions. This includes the Penang Sentral interchange station, ensuring smooth transportation links.
Abi Sofian commented on the federal government’s decision to assume control of the Penang LRT project from the state government, stating that it would lead to improved project management. He emphasized the involvement of Mass Rapid Transit Corp Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp), which has expertise in implementing rapid transportation systems in the Klang Valley, as a positive factor.
YS Chan, a Tourism and Transport Business Consultant, emphasized the potential of the Penang LRT project to enhance industrial tourism besides aiding commuters. Penang’s reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing of high-tech goods, both nationally and internationally, could attract more visitors. He highlighted the convenience of LRT travel, suggesting that tourists would appreciate seeing locals utilizing the system. However, Chan stressed the importance of meticulous planning for the entire LRT route and strategic station placement.
When questioned about the impact of the Penang LRT construction on ferry operations, Chan, an Asean tourism expert, expressed confidence that it wouldn’t pose a problem. He sees the ferry service as complementary to road and rail transport. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow hailed the LRT project as offering numerous socio-economic advantages to Penang, known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” in the future.
Although the Penang LRT project may not completely resolve traffic congestion issues, Chow emphasized that it represents a significant effort by the state government to address pressing transportation challenges. The project, spanning approximately 29 kilometers with 20 stations, including interchange stations at Komtar and Penang Sentral, is slated to begin in September or October of this year.
The Pearl LRT line will include facilities for KTMB commuter trains and electric trains (ETS), with a projected operational launch by 2030. The federal government recently assumed control of the Penang Pearl LRT Route project from the state government, subsequent to the Cabinet’s endorsement of the project proposal on March 22 this year.
